Credits:

Gordan Nikolic

Description:

LSO Concertmaster Nikoli Takes on Shostakovichs SymphonySACD hybrid disc. Nikoli, who exuded a charismatic presence as concertmaster of the LSO, is a renowned violinist also known as Ibragimovas mentor. Here, he takes on Shostakovichs Symphony No. 14, The Song of the Dead, with the Netherlands Chamber Orchestra, where he has served as music director since 2004.The first thing that strikes the listener is the slow tempo. In particular, the slow first, fourth, ninth, and tenth movements are slower than any existing recording, conveying a profound sense of the death that serves as the works overarching theme.The Israeli soprano Gal James, who performs the solo parts, also appears on Petrenkos Naxos recording; however, this recording was made four months earlier. She is the young singer of today who performs this work most flawlessly, delivering a magnificent performance ranging from the Maiden o